Research Director

About the role

This senior leadership position sets the standard for research design, client advisory, and development of the next generation of researchers. You will own the most complex, high‑value client relationships in the region, driving methodology, commercial strategy and AI‑enabled innovation.

Key responsibilities

• Own and grow the region’s most complex, high‑value client relationships, acting as trusted adviser and leading methodology, pricing and commercial negotiations.
• Design and oversee quantitative research projects, including questionnaire development, sample design, weighting and significance testing, while mentoring junior researchers.
• Lead new‑business proposals, tenders and RFIs, ensuring rigorous methodology, accurate pricing and compelling storytelling.
• Present insights to senior stakeholders, translating data into actionable recommendations and driving commercial growth.
• Identify and implement AI‑enabled tools to improve research design, data processing and reporting, championing automation across the team.
• Manage team workload, mentor staff, lead recruitment and uphold professional and ethical standards.

Required profile

• 10‑12 years of quantitative market‑research experience with proven client leadership and line‑management of research teams.
• Track record of owning high‑value accounts, winning repeat business and delivering projects on time and budget.
• Strong commercial acumen, able to rationalise decisions for clients and senior stakeholders.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills, comfortable with C‑suite audiences.
• Fluency in English (Arabic preferred) and familiarity with MENA cultural nuances.

Required skills

• AI tools
• Significance testing
• Sample design
• Weighting
• Questionnaire design
• Microsoft Office 365
• Crunch (data visualisation)
• CI/G4 scripting
• Advanced statistical analysis